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SIMM
Single Inline Memory Module. A small circuit board holding a group of memory chips.
Typically, SIMMs hold up to nine RAM chips. On PCs, the ninth chip is for parity error
checking. Unlike memory chips, SIMMs are measured in bytes rather than bits. In today's
SIMMs, each chip holds 2 MB, so a single SIMM holds 16 MB. SIMMs are easier to install
than individual memory chips. The bus from a SIMM to the actual memory chips is 32 bits
wide. A newer technology, called dual in-line memory module (DIMM), provides a 64-bit
bus. To take advantage of the 64-bit bus on Pentium processors, use either DIMMs or pairs
of SIMMs. See DIMMs.
Slot 1
The form factor for Intel Pentium processors. The Slot 1 package replaces the Socket 7 and
Socket 8 form factors used by previous Pentium processors. Slot 1 is a 242-pin daughter
card slot that accepts a processor packaged as a Single Edge Contact (SEC) cartridge. A
system board can have one or two Slot 1s. See SEC.
SMART
Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology. A hard drive feature that works in
conjunction with system software (for example, LANDesk Client Manager, NEC Auto
Backup) for identifying a potential problem on the hard drive and automatically backing up
system files to a user-specified device, such as a tape or Zip drive.
sound card
An expansion card designed for sound input and output. Sound cards can record and play
back digital audio. Most also have a MIDI synthesizer, which means they can play MIDI
files; some also have MIDI inputs and outputs.
super video graphics array (SVGA)
A color bit-mapped graphics display standard that provides a resolution of 1024x 768 with
up to 256 colors displayed simultaneously.
synchronous
Refers to protocols that require the clocks of the communicating machines to be
coordinated.
system board
The main printed circuit board inside the system unit into which other boards and major
chip components, such as the system microprocessor, are connected.
T
tpi
Tracks per inch.
track
Any of many concentric circular regions on a disk for storing data. Tracks are divided into
sectors. One measure of storage density of a disk is tpi.
Glossary 13
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